Adequate and quality sleep is essential for a healthy brain and total body function. It is also vital for the growth of youth and adults.
Recent research suggests a link between poor sleep and muscle dysmorphia, a rapidly increasing condition among young people.
This specific research study was published in the journal Sleep Health, and it included interviews with over 900 youths and young adults. Over the course of two weeks, those with more severe muscle dysmorphia symptoms reported sleeping for shorter lengths of time and having difficulties falling or staying asleep.
Lead author Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, an assistant professor at the University of Toronto’s Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, stated that “inadequate sleep can have severe detrimental implications for adolescents and young adults, including increased negative mental health symptoms”.
“Poor sleep among those who experience muscle dysmorphia symptoms is concerning as it may exacerbate the functional and social impairment these individuals commonly report, as well as increase suicidal thoughts and behaviours.”
